Our Dwelling Place

Wednesday, December 2, 2015                                                      Psalm 90:1-8, 12

Catherine Ellis

Lord, you have been our dwelling place in all generations. Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever you had formed the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God. You turn us back to dust and say, “Turn back, you mortals.” For a thousand years in your sight are like yesterday when it is past, or like a watch in the night. You sweep them away; they are like a dream, like grass that is renewed in the morning; in the morning it flourishes and is renewed; in the evening it fades and withers. For we are consumed by your anger; by your wrath we are overwhelmed. You have set our iniquities before you, our secret sins in light of your countenance…So teach us to count our days that we may gain a wise heart. (Psalm 90:1-8, 12)

One of my favorite places to ‘dwell’ during the Christmas season is in my parent’s den by the fire, wrapped up in a blanket, with a hot chocolate in my hand. This ‘dwelling place’ is one that is full of warm and cozy feelings. Though this season can be full of many wonderful feelings, it can also be an anxiety ridden and difficult time. Where do our thoughts dwell during this holiday season? Many of us look forward to seeing family, stress about what to buy one another for Christmas, and how to ‘get it all done.’ Others of us are likely missing a loved one this holiday season or wondering how so many Christmases have already past. It may feel difficult to be jolly.

Psalm 90 begins by reminding us that God is our dwelling place from everlasting to everlasting. These verses begin with the assurance of the constancy of God and then turn to address the frailty of human life. The psalmist reminds us that our days are numbered. This may not seem to be a Christmas message, but it can be, because of what the psalmist asks of God: “So teach us to count our days that we may gain a wise heart.” Here the psalmist is asking God to teach us to receive the days we have been given as a gift from God. The psalmist is praying, “Teach us to live day by day.”

The psalmist prayer is full of advent hope. It reminds us that though some days feel grim, stressful, and challenging, we can depend on God to help us try to receive them as a gift. God is our dwelling place.

Prayer: Lord, during this Christmas season help me to dwell in your warmth and peace. As I experience the crazy shopping hustle, remind me of the gift you have given me. As I miss a loved one, help me trust in your daily steadfastness. As I curl up close to a fire, show me how to treasure other days as I do this one. Thank you for today. Amen.